Emergency Preparedness Month: 3 ZT’s for your Bug out bag

There are 2 knives you'll want to have in case of an emergency, the first recommended knife is a solid fixed blade. The ZT0180, the knife we recommend in this case was designed by and based on Rick Hinderer’s Fieldtac knife, the new Zero Tolerance 0180 is a smaller and lighter fixed-blade knife, yet it’s built to handle tough duty.

The blade is made of Vanadis 4 Extra powder metallurgical cold work steel. This steel is perfectly designed for hard use and offers good wear resistance. Resistance to chipping and cracking makes it an excellent steel for hard-use applications like the 0180. It is also very suitable for coating—which ZT does with tungsten DLC non-reflective coating.

The 0180’s handle scales are G-10 for durability as well as reduced weight. The handle locks right into the hand and the forefinger contour provides grip security. Heavy jimping on the spine further enhances grip and comes with a convenient belt sheath.

The next knife we feel would be great in any situation is the ZT0350ST. The 0350ST is smaller and lighter than some of our larger ZT models, yet it packs a lot of features into a smaller size that some users prefer in a tight situation, but also especially for every day carry. This model also features partial serration, which enables it to zip through cord or other fibrous material with ease.In addition to providing a non-reflective surface, the black Tungsten DLC coating offers additional blade hardness and reduces friction. This high-performance S30V blade is paired with textured black G-10 scales for a secure grip and excellent mechanical strength even under the roughest conditions.

The 3rd ZT we recommend isn't a knife at all, but our latest tactical pen. The Zero Tolerance 0010EB tactical pen is a covert self-defense tool that can make a crucial difference when you need it most.

This ZT-worthy tactical pen features a rugged machined body of spiral-fluted 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum. For an extra-secure seal and to help keep moisture out, the pen cap includes an O-ring seal. A built-in glassbreaker tip is ready to come to the rescue should it be needed, whether as a tool to shatter a windshield to free a trapped victim or as a defensive tool in case of an unexpected attack.

Most of the time, however, a ZT tactical pen is simply a superb writing instrument. Equipped with a Rite in the Rain ink cartridge, it writes in any weather, upside down, and in extreme temperatures. The pressurized cartridge means smooth ink flow every time. When refill time comes, it also fits Parker and Fisher Space Pen cartridges.

In an emergency situation it's always important to have the right tool for the job. In most cases, its great to know that the tool at your side is a ZT.